What is The Open Cut rule?

In the realm of professional golf, “making the cut” is a pivotal milestone, a testament to a player’s performance that qualifies them for the final two rounds of a four-round tournament. This rule not only narrows down the field of competitors, but also amplifies the tension and excitement as the championship progresses.

The Open Championship, one of the four major golf tournaments, has its unique cut rule that sets it apart from other majors and PGA Tour events. Unlike some tournaments that might implement a secondary cut, the Open maintains its field for the last two rounds once the initial cut has been made.

In this brief overview, we’ll delve into the specifics of the Open Championship’s cut rule, explain how it operates, and explore its impact on the tournament’s structure and the strategies of the players. Whether you’re a long-time golf fan or a newcomer to the sport, this page will offer you a clear understanding of this crucial aspect of the Open Championship. Prepare for a swift dive into the intricacies of one of the most critical junctures in golf’s oldest major championship!

Want to know what the cut rule is at The Open? And see just how many players make it? You’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know…

A history of The Open cut rule

The Open Championship is the oldest of the major championships in golf, first contested in 1860. The cut rule – where a select number of players make it through to the weekend – was first implemented at The Open in 1926, where it has remained in place ever since.

Historically, The Open cut lines have had the fewest changes of all four majors. But the British Open cut rule has experienced some change throughout the tournament’s prestigious history.

Between 1968 and 1985, the R&A implemented a ‘double cut’, which involved a normal cut after 36 holes, followed by an additional cut after 54 holes.

The Open Championship cut rules

There are no 10-shot rules at The Open where players within 10 shots of the lead make the weekend.

To make the 36-hole cut and advance to the weekend at The Open, players need to be inside the top 70 players – including ties – after the first two rounds of play. This is the same number as the PGA Championship, and 10 places more than at the US Open.

The exact number of players who make the single cut therefore varies from year to year depending on the amount of ties on the cutline. In 2021, 77 players made the cut at The Open.

At age 64, Tom Watson is the oldest player to ever make the cut at this golf tournament, doing so in 2014 at Hoylake.

Adding an Extra Layer of Excitement and Anticipation

The cut rule of the Open Championship serves as a significant turning point in the tournament, shaping the field for the final two rounds and adding an extra layer of excitement and anticipation. It represents a crucial hurdle for the players, and successfully clearing this “cut” marks a significant achievement in their championship journey. As this rule varies among different golf tournaments, understanding it is key to comprehending the unique dynamics of the Open Championship.

Through our concise overview of the Open Championship cut rule, we hope to have demystified this important aspect of one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments. Whether you’re a passionate golf enthusiast or a curious newcomer, understanding this rule provides a deeper insight into the strategy and progression of the championship. We encourage you to further explore the fascinating world of golf and the Open Championship, where every rule and every swing tells a story.

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FAQs

Q1: What is the cut rule in the Open Championship?

A: The cut rule in the Open Championship stipulates that after the first 36 holes, the top 70 players, including ties, qualify for the final two rounds of the tournament.

Q2: How does the cut rule differ in the Open Championship compared to other tournaments?

A: Unlike some PGA Tour events that implement a secondary cut if more than 78 players make the cut, the Open Championship does not have such a rule. Once players have made the initial cut, they continue to the final rounds regardless of the number.

Q3: Can the cut rule in the Open Championship change?

A: While the cut rule has remained consistent over the years, the organizing body reserves the right to make amendments. Always refer to the most recent championship rules for the most accurate information.

Q4: What does “making the cut” mean for a player?

A: “Making the cut” is a significant achievement for a player as it means they have qualified for the final two rounds of the tournament. It signifies their good performance and keeps them in contention for the championship.

Please note: The answers provided above are accurate up to my training cut-off in September 2021. For the most recent information, please check the latest resources or official Open Championship website.